The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has concluded an exhaustive feasibility study under which it will introduce new-age renewable energy solutions across its real estate assets, both in the trade centre and Jebel Ali locations.

Under this initiative, the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) within the DWTC complex will incorporate next-generation technologies for solar power as well as the latest energy conservation methods.  

As part of this project, the expansive rooftops and facades of the halls of the conference and exhibition centre will be innovatively leveraged, according to a statement issued by the DWTC.

As part of the initial phases of DWTC’s comprehensive sustainability programme, the Trade Centre complex will see the installation of a 1.2 MW photovoltaic solar power plant spanning around 10,500 sq m and featuring around 4,500 photovoltaic modules, to generate an estimated 1,800 MWh/year to cater for 60 one-bedroom apartment equivalent residential unit requirements annually, the statement added.

The planned photovoltaic system is being designed as a noiseless and environment-friendly solution that not only maximises the capture of solar energy within a desert environment but also looks at addressing issues regarding cost-effective conversion to power, unaided by mechanical movement and fossil fuels.  

Helal Saeed Almarri, the director general of the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA), said: "DWTC’s commitment to contributing to the UAE’s clean energy agenda is exemplified in our deployment of pioneering sustainable and renewable energy solutions across the DWTC complex."

"The integral convention and exhibition assets, in particular, will spearhead our efforts to drive innovation and be the future global benchmark for sustainability, as it is aligned with Dubai’s masterplan for a green future," he stated.

Almarri said the detailed feasibility study aims to incorporate next-generation technologies for the exhibition halls that will be part of the retained permanent event and conference facilities within the DWTC complex.

“We envision this project at the heart of Dubai’s new business district, to serve as the emirate’s showcase initiative for clean and sustainable energy on an international stage,” he added.

Among other developments, One Central, DWTC’s newest iconic mixed-use development has pioneered sustainability as part of Phase One of the wider programme with its investments in solar rooftop technologies and innovative clean energy solutions.

The project that has already been awarded Leed (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold status is expected to generate 58 per cent of its hot water demand by utilising photovoltaic cells within the skylights of its commercial assets, solar panel rooftops and flat plate collectors.

DWTC has further announced plans to build a solar-powered six-storey car-park, extending the application of the efficient solar rooftop technology and enabling its operation on natural resources while reducing its carbon footprint by adding flat plate collectors.

All initiatives that have been assessed and outlined as part of the strategic DWTC renewable energy and sustainability programme follow the Dubai Green Building Regulations and renewable energy guidelines from the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority.

The Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 as announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, prioritises the utilisation of sustainable energy in its commitment to making Dubai the city with the least carbon footprint in the world within the next three decades.

The agenda focuses on delivering an environment-friendly energy mix comprising solar energy (25 per cent), nuclear power (seven per cent), clean coal (seven per cent) and gas (61 per cent) by 2030, gradually increasing the utilisation of clean energy sources to 75 per cent by 2050.

“As renewable energy initiatives gain impetus in the region, the DWTC continues to accelerate its undertaking of seeking out, sourcing and implementing sustainable energy solutions in every aspect of its operations – from mindful and responsible energy consumption to conservation, renewal and reuse, contributing actively to the strategic agenda for Dubai 2050 in line with the vision of Sheikh Mohammed,” added Almarri.-TradeArabia News Service